WISE Automotive Sequencing
The essence of automotive sequencing is for suppliers and 3PLs to deliver parts to the manufacturers just in time, and also in the proper build sequence, as requested by the customers. WISE Sequencing covers a number of components including doors, quarter panels, overhead systems, seats, wheels, glass, bumpers, exhaust systems, axles, and even engines. Sequencing optimizes production efficiency while also reducing waste and parts storage space.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
Using traditional EDI, the sequenced requirement usually comes in a form of an 866 transaction (Production Sequence). For example, with Ford, the 866 contains approximately six days of “firm” build information. Other manufacturers, like GM (in some cases) and Nissan, also use EDI transactions to communicate sequencing requirements to their suppliers.
Internet And FTP
In some instances, the build information is made available to the suppliers on the Internet. For example, an automobile manufacturer may post the requirements on a secure supplier web site, where the supplier can download it into their system. Sometimes, this becomes the function of the supplier’s corporate office, and then they take the responsibility to make this information available to the appropriate plants on their wide area networks, or via FTP to the plants’ systems.
Another common way for suppliers to receive sequencing data is via a broadcast pulse. This is prevalent with plants where the suppliers are located relatively close to the manufacturer, usually no more than an hour’s drive away. Usually, the pulse is triggered when the vehicle passes a certain predefined point on the manufacturer’s assembly line (such as when the vehicle exits the paint section), and the requirement is broadcast to the suppliers, one vehicle at a time.